KR102840187B1 - Ultrasonic imaging device and controlling method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

An ultrasonic imaging device and a control method thereof are provided for determining and displaying a Bishop score through ultrasonic waves.
An ultrasound imaging device according to one embodiment includes: a display; a probe for transmitting an ultrasound signal to a subject and detecting an echo signal; and a control unit for generating an ultrasound image of a cervix and a fetus of the subject based on the echo signal, processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the state of the cervix and information on the position of the fetus, determining a numerical value representing the degree of labor progress based on the information on the state of the cervix and the information on the position of the fetus, and controlling the display to display the numerical value.

Description

Ultrasonic imaging device and control method thereof {ULTRASONIC IMAGING DEVICE AND CONTROLLING METHOD THEREOF}

The present invention relates to an ultrasonic imaging device that provides an ultrasonic image by irradiating an ultrasonic signal to a target object and receiving an echo signal reflected from the target object, and a control method thereof.

In general, in the medical field, the Bishop score, which is calculated based on changes in the cervix and the position of the fetus, is used as a measure of the progress of labor.

To calculate the Bishop score, a health care provider may perform an internal examination of the mother, which may cause pain or discomfort to the mother.

In addition, calculating Bishop's score through internal examination may be inaccurate and have low reliability as it is based on the subjective judgment of medical professionals.

An ultrasonic imaging device and a control method thereof are provided for determining and displaying a Bishop score through ultrasonic waves.

An ultrasound imaging device according to one embodiment includes: a display; a probe for transmitting an ultrasound signal to a subject and detecting an echo signal; and a control unit for generating an ultrasound image of a cervix and a fetus of the subject based on the echo signal, processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the state of the cervix and information on the position of the fetus, determining a numerical value representing the degree of labor progress based on the information on the state of the cervix and the information on the position of the fetus, and controlling the display to display the numerical value.

The above cervical condition information may include the length of the cervix, the degree of dilation of the cervix, the stiffness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix.

The control unit can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress by adding up numerical values corresponding to each of the length of the cervix, the degree of dilation of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, the position of the cervix, and the position of the fetus.

The control unit may, when processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix, determine a numerical value corresponding to the degree of dilatation of the cervix as the minimum.

The control unit, when processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix, can determine the maximum numerical value corresponding to each of the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix.

The probe may include a first probe that is inserted into the body of the subject and detects an echo signal; and a second probe that is in contact with the body surface of the subject and detects an echo signal.

The control unit can process an ultrasound image generated based on an echo signal of the first probe to obtain the position of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the length of the cervix.

The control unit can process an ultrasound image generated based on an echo signal of the second probe to obtain information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix and the position of the fetus.

The control unit can control the display to display at least one of the status information of the cervix or the position information of the fetus.

The above ultrasound imaging device further includes an input unit for receiving a user input, and the control unit can adjust at least one of the state information of the cervix or the position information of the fetus based on the user input received through the input unit.

A method for controlling an ultrasound imaging device according to one embodiment, which includes a probe for transmitting an ultrasound signal to a display and a target and detecting an echo signal, comprises: generating an ultrasound image of a cervix and a fetus of the target based on the echo signal; processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the state of the cervix and information on the position of the fetus; determining a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the information on the state of the cervix and the information on the position of the fetus; and controlling the display to display the numerical value.

The above cervical condition information may include the length of the cervix, the degree of dilation of the cervix, the stiffness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix.

Determining a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the information on the state of the cervix and the information on the position of the fetus may include determining a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress by adding up numerical values corresponding to each of the length of the cervix, the degree of dilation of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, the position of the cervix, and the position of the fetus.

Determining a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the state information of the cervix and the position information of the fetus may include, when processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix, determining a numerical value corresponding to the degree of dilation of the cervix as the minimum.

Determining a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the state information of the cervix and the position information of the fetus may include, when processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the degree of dilation of the cervix, determining a maximum numerical value corresponding to each of the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix.

The probe may include a first probe that is inserted into the body of the subject and detects an echo signal; and a second probe that is in contact with the body surface of the subject and detects an echo signal.

Processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the state of the cervix and information on the position of the fetus may include processing the ultrasound image generated based on the echo signal of the first probe to obtain the position of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the length of the cervix.

Processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the state of the cervix and information on the position of the fetus may include processing the ultrasound image generated based on the echo signal of the second probe to obtain information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix and information on the position of the fetus.

The method for controlling the ultrasound imaging device may further include controlling the display to display at least one of the status information of the cervix or the position information of the fetus.

The ultrasound imaging device may further include an input unit that receives a user input, and the method for controlling the ultrasound imaging device may further include adjusting at least one of the state information of the cervix or the position information of the fetus based on the user input received through the input unit.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an ultrasonic imaging device and a control method thereof can provide a highly reliable Bishop score by determining a Bishop score through ultrasound and displaying the Bishop score.

Figure 1 is an external view of an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a control block diagram of an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a case where an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention determines a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress.
FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a case where an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention determines the position of the cervix.
Figure 5 is a drawing showing numerical values for the position of the cervix.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a case where an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention determines the stiffness of the cervix.
Figure 7 is a drawing to explain the length of the cervix and the degree of dilation of the cervix.
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a case where an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention determines the length of the cervix.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a case where an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention determines the degree of dilatation of the cervix.
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a case where an ultrasound imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention determines position information of a fetus.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a case where an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention displays a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a case in which a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress is displayed among the control methods of an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a case in which a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress is determined based on a user input among the control methods of an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely preferred examples of the disclosed invention, and there may be various modified examples that can replace the embodiments and drawings of this specification at the time of filing of this application.

Throughout this specification, when a part is said to be "connected" to another part, this includes not only a direct connection but also an indirect connection, and an indirect connection includes a connection via a wireless communications network.

In addition, the terminology used in this specification is used to describe embodiments and is not intended to limit and/or restrict the disclosed invention. The singular expression includes plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this specification, the terms "comprises" or "has" and the like are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

Additionally, terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., used herein may be used to describe various components; however, the components are not limited by these terms, and these terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component may also be referred to as the first component.

Additionally, terms such as "~part", "~device", "~block", "~absence", and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may refer to at least one piece of hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) / ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one piece of software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

The symbols attached to each step are used to identify each step and do not indicate the order of the steps, and the steps may be performed in a different order than stated unless the context clearly indicates a specific order.

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

Figure 1 is an external view of an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment includes a main body (100) that includes an ultrasonic probe (200) that transmits an ultrasonic signal to a target object, receives an ultrasonic echo signal from the target object, and converts it into an electrical signal, an input unit (130) that is connected to the ultrasonic probe (200) and receives an input from a user, and a display (150) that displays an ultrasonic image.

According to one embodiment, the ultrasonic probe (200) is connected to the main body (100) via a cable (11) and can receive various signals necessary for controlling the ultrasonic probe (200) or transmit an analog signal or digital signal corresponding to an ultrasonic echo signal received by the ultrasonic probe (200) to the main body (100).

To this end, one end of the cable (11) may be connected to an ultrasonic probe (200), and the other end may be provided with a connector (12) that can be coupled or detached from a slot (13) of the main body (100). That is, the main body (100) and the ultrasonic probe (200) may exchange control commands or data using the cable (11).

However, the embodiment of the ultrasonic probe (200) is not limited to this, and it is also possible to implement a wireless probe and exchange signals through a wireless network formed between the ultrasonic probe (200) and the main body (100).

That is, when the ultrasonic probe (200) is implemented as a wireless probe, the ultrasonic probe (200) can be connected to the main body (100) via a wireless network rather than a cable (11), and the main body (100) and the ultrasonic probe (200) can exchange control commands or data via the wireless network.

At this time, the ultrasonic probe (200) may be any one of an endocavity transducer, a convex array transducer, or a linear array transducer.

In addition, in FIG. 1, one ultrasonic probe (200) is illustrated as being connected to the main body (100), but this is not limited thereto, and multiple ultrasonic probes (200) may be connected to one main body (100).

For example, a first probe that is inserted into the body of a subject and detects an echo signal and a second probe that is in contact with the body surface of the subject and detects an echo signal may be connected to the main body (100). That is, the ultrasonic probe (200) may include, depending on the embodiment, a first probe that is inserted into the body of a subject and detects an ultrasonic echo signal and a second probe that is in contact with the body surface of the subject and detects an echo signal. At this time, the first probe may be an endocavity transducer, and the second probe may be a convex array transducer or a linear array transducer.

Meanwhile, a plurality of casters may be provided on the lower portion of the main body (100) to facilitate the mobility of the ultrasonic imaging device (10). The plurality of casters may fix the ultrasonic imaging device (10) to a specific location or move it in a specific direction. Such an ultrasonic imaging device (10) is referred to as a cart-type ultrasonic imaging device.

However, unlike FIG. 1, the ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment may be a portable ultrasonic imaging device that can be carried when moving over long distances. In this case, the portable ultrasonic imaging device may not be equipped with casters. Examples of portable ultrasonic imaging devices may include, but are not limited to, a PACS viewer, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a PDA, a tablet PC, etc.

Below, the configuration of each of the main body (100) and the ultrasonic probe (200) of the ultrasonic imaging device (10) will be described in detail.

Figure 2 is a control block diagram of an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 2, an ultrasonic probe (200) of an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment includes a transducer module (210) including an ultrasonic transducer array.

A transducer module (210) according to one embodiment includes a plurality of transducer elements to mutually convert electrical signals and ultrasonic signals, transmit ultrasonic signals to a target object, and receive ultrasonic echo signals reflected from the target object.

Since the degree to which ultrasonic waves are reflected varies depending on the medium, the transducer module (210) can obtain information about the inside of an object by collecting ultrasonic echo signals.

That is, the transducer module (210) generates an ultrasonic signal according to an applied pulse signal or an AC signal and irradiates the ultrasonic signal to the target object. The ultrasonic signal irradiated to the target object is reflected from the target area inside the target object. The transducer module (210) can receive the reflected ultrasonic echo signal and convert the received ultrasonic echo signal into an electrical signal.

To this end, the transducer module (210) may be composed of a piezoelectric layer that converts electrical signals and acoustic signals into each other when a piezoelectric material vibrates, a matching layer that reduces the difference in acoustic impedance between the piezoelectric layer and the human body so that the ultrasonic waves generated in the piezoelectric layer can be transmitted to the target point of the human body as much as possible, a lens layer that focuses the ultrasonic waves traveling in front of the piezoelectric layer to a specific point, and an absorbing layer that blocks the ultrasonic waves from traveling in the rear of the piezoelectric layer to prevent image distortion.

In addition, the transducer module (210) receives power from an external power supply device or an internal storage device, such as a battery. When power is supplied, the piezoelectric vibrator or thin film constituting the transducer module (210) vibrates. The transducer module (210) irradiates ultrasonic waves generated by the vibration of the piezoelectric vibrator or thin film to a target object. When receiving echo ultrasonic waves reflected from the target object, the piezoelectric vibrator or thin film constituting the transducer module (210) vibrates in response to the received ultrasonic echo signal. The transducer module (210) generates an alternating current having a frequency corresponding to the vibration frequency of the piezoelectric vibrator or thin film, thereby converting the ultrasonic echo signal into an electrical signal.

In this way, the transducer module (210) includes a plurality of transducer elements for transmitting ultrasonic signals and receiving ultrasonic echo signals.

As the transducer element, a magnetostrictive ultrasonic transducer that utilizes the magnetostrictive effect of a magnetic material, a piezoelectric ultrasonic transducer that utilizes the piezoelectric effect of a piezoelectric material, or a piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducer (pMUT) can be used, and a capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (cMUT) that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves by utilizing the vibration of hundreds or thousands of micromachined thin films can also be used.

A main body (100) of an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment includes a transmission signal generating unit (110) that generates a transmission signal for generating an ultrasonic signal to be irradiated to a target object, a beamforming unit (120) that beamforms the received signal, an input unit (130) that receives an input from a user, a control unit (140) that determines a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress, a display (150) that displays an ultrasonic image and a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress, and a storage unit (160) that stores various types of information necessary for controlling the ultrasonic imaging device (10).

A transmission signal generation unit (110) according to one embodiment can generate a transmission signal according to a control command of a control unit (140) and transmit the generated transmission signal to an ultrasonic probe (200). Here, the transmission signal corresponds to a high-voltage electrical signal for vibrating a plurality of transducer elements of the ultrasonic probe (200).

The beamforming unit (120) according to one embodiment can convert an analog signal and a digital signal to each other, and thus converts a transmission signal (digital signal) generated from a transmission signal generating unit (110) into an analog signal or converts an ultrasonic echo signal (analog signal) received from an ultrasonic probe (200) into a digital signal to support communication between the ultrasonic probe (200) and the main body (100).

In addition, the beamforming unit (120) also serves to add a time delay to the digital signal by considering the position and focus of the vibrator in order to overcome the time difference between the ultrasound reaching the focus and the time difference between the ultrasound reaching from the focus.

That is, when a plurality of transducer elements irradiate ultrasonic signals and the process of gathering all of these ultrasonic signals at a focus point is called focusing, the beamforming unit (120) can perform the roles of transmit focusing, which irradiates ultrasonic signals generated from each transducer element in an appropriate order to overcome the time difference in reaching the focus, and receive focusing, which aligns the ultrasonic echo signals at the same time with an appropriate time difference in order to overcome the time difference in reaching each transducer element.

These transmission signal generation unit (110) and beamforming unit (120) may be included in the main body (100), as shown in FIG. 2, but they may also be provided in the ultrasonic probe (200) itself to perform their role.

According to one embodiment, the input unit (130) can receive input from a user regarding control of the ultrasonic imaging device (10).

Specifically, the input unit (130) can receive a mode selection command from the user, for example, A mode (amplitude mode), B mode (brightness mode), M mode (motion mode), or Doppler imaging.

In addition, the input unit (130) can receive user input for adjusting the status information of the cervix and the position information of the fetus. That is, when the status information of the cervix and the position information of the fetus are displayed through the display (150), the user can adjust at least one of the status information of the cervix or the position information of the fetus according to the diagnosis made by the user through the input unit (130).

Additionally, the input unit (130) may receive a command to start ultrasound imaging from a user, and may also receive an input of a imaging protocol (e.g., imaging area, imaging time, etc.).

To this end, the input unit (130) may be provided on the main body (100) of the ultrasonic imaging device (10), and may be implemented using a physical button, knob, touch pad, touch screen, stick-type operating device, trackball foot switch, or foot pedal. In this case, the input unit (130) provided as a touch pad or touch screen may be provided on the display (150).

Additionally, the input unit (130) may be provided as a separate input device such as a keyboard or mouse, connected to the ultrasonic imaging device (10) by wire or wirelessly.

Additionally, a foot switch or foot pedal may be provided at the bottom of the main body (100), and a user may control the operation of the ultrasonic imaging device (10) using the foot switch or foot pedal.

According to one embodiment, the control unit (140) can generate an ultrasonic image based on an ultrasonic echo signal received from an ultrasonic probe (200).

Specifically, the control unit (140) can generate an ultrasonic image through a scan conversion process for an ultrasonic echo signal.

Here, the ultrasound image may include not only a gray scale image obtained by scanning the object in A mode, B mode, and M mode, but also a Doppler image that expresses a moving object using the Doppler effect.

Doppler images may include blood flow Doppler images (color Doppler images) that indicate blood flow, tissue Doppler images that indicate tissue movement, and spectral Doppler images that indicate the movement speed of an object as a waveform.

At this time, the user can take an image of the abdomen of the subject (mother) or the body of the subject (mother) through the ultrasound probe (200) so as to determine a numerical value for the degree of labor progress, and the control unit (140) can generate an ultrasound image of the cervix and fetus of the subject (mother) based on the ultrasound echo signal received from the ultrasound probe (200). That is, the control unit (140) can generate an ultrasound image in which at least one of the cervix or the fetus appears based on the ultrasound echo signal from the ultrasound probe (200).

According to one embodiment, the control unit (140) can process ultrasound images of the cervix and the fetus to obtain information on the state of the cervix and information on the position of the fetus.

That is, the control unit (140) can identify the cervix and the fetus based on image processing of an ultrasound image based on an image processing algorithm, and can obtain information on the state of the cervix and the position of the fetus based on the identified cervix and the fetus.

Image processing algorithms may be used, for example, edge detection and morphological operations, and any image processing algorithm capable of identifying objects in ultrasound images may be used without limitation.

Information about the condition of the cervix includes the length of the cervix, the degree of cervical dilation, the stiffness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix.

In this way, the control unit (140) can obtain information on the state of the cervix and information on the position of the fetus based on an echo signal received from at least one of a first probe inserted into the body of the subject (mother) to detect an echo signal or a second probe contacting the body surface (abdominal area) of the subject (mother) to detect an echo signal.

For example, the control unit (140) can process an ultrasound image captured through a first probe to obtain the position of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the length of the cervix, and can process an ultrasound image captured through a second probe to obtain information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix and the position of the fetus.

However, the present invention is not limited to the above example, and the control unit (140) can process an ultrasound image captured from either the first probe or the second probe to obtain information on the length of the cervix, the degree of dilation of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, the position of the cervix, and the position of the fetus.

According to one embodiment, the control unit (140) can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the state information of the cervix and the position information of the fetus.

At this time, the numerical value indicating the progress of labor may correspond to the Bishop score, and may be used to predict the timing of labor or determine the method of labor by judging the progress of labor.

Specifically, the control unit (140) can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress by adding up numerical values corresponding to each of the information on the length of the cervix, the degree of dilation of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, the position of the cervix, and the position of the fetus.

The control unit (140), according to an embodiment, may determine a minimum numerical value corresponding to the degree of dilatation of the cervix when processing an ultrasound image to obtain information on the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix, respectively.

That is, when the control unit (140) determines that the cervix is not effacement by obtaining information on the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix, the control unit (140) determines that the cervix is not dilated and can determine the numerical value corresponding to the degree of dilation of the cervix to be the minimum.

In addition, the control unit (140), according to an embodiment, when processing an ultrasound image to obtain information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix, can determine the maximum numerical value corresponding to each of the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix.

That is, when information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix is acquired and it is determined that the cervix is dilated, the control unit (140) determines that the cervix is effaced and can determine the maximum numerical values corresponding to the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix.

According to one embodiment, the control unit (140) can control the display (150) to display a numerical value indicating the progress of labor.

Additionally, the control unit (140) according to one embodiment can control the display (150) to display at least one of the status information of the cervix or the position information of the fetus.

At this time, the control unit (140) may, if a user input for adjustment of at least one of the cervix state information or the fetal position information is received through the input unit (130) according to an embodiment, adjust at least one of the cervix state information or the fetal position information based on the user input.

That is, when the user displays the cervical condition information and the fetal position information through the display (150), the user can adjust at least one of the cervical condition information or the fetal position information according to the diagnosis made by the user through the input unit (130).

In this case, the control unit (140) can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the state information of the cervix and the position information of the fetus adjusted by the user input.

The control unit (140) may include at least one memory that stores a program that performs the operations described above and the operations described below, and at least one processor that executes the stored program.

A display (150) according to one embodiment can display an ultrasound image generated from a control unit (140) and can display a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress.

Additionally, the display (150) may, depending on the embodiment, display at least one of cervical status information or fetal position information.

For this purpose, the display (150) may be provided in the main body (100) of the ultrasonic imaging device (10), and may also be provided as a separate display device connected to the ultrasonic imaging device (10) by wire or wirelessly.

The display (150) may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) display, or an electronic paper display. However, the type of the display (150) is not limited to the above examples, and any type of display capable of displaying a numerical value indicating the progress of labor to the user may be included without limitation.

The storage unit (160) according to one embodiment can store various information necessary for controlling the ultrasonic imaging device (10). For example, the storage unit (160) can store an ultrasonic image generated by the control unit (140), an image processing algorithm for processing the ultrasonic image, information on the correlation between the status information of the cervix and numerical values, information on the correlation between the position information of the fetus and numerical values, etc.

To this end, the storage unit (160) may be implemented as at least one of non-volatile memory devices such as cache, ROM (read only memory), PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable ROM), and flash memory, or volatile memory devices such as RAM (random access memory), or storage media such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or CD-ROM. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and any type capable of storing various types of information may be used as the type of the storage unit (160).

Additionally, the storage unit (160), in relation to the control unit (140), may be a memory implemented as a separate chip from the aforementioned processor, or may be implemented as a single chip with the processor.

Meanwhile, the ultrasonic imaging device (10) may further include a communication unit (not shown). At this time, the communication unit may be connected to a network via wire or wirelessly to communicate with an external device or server.

The communication unit can exchange data with the hospital server or other medical devices within the hospital connected through the picture archiving and communication system (PACS), and can communicate data according to the digital imaging and communications in medicine (DICOM) standard.

Additionally, the communications unit can perform data communication with servers and medical devices within the hospital, as well as portable terminals of doctors and patients.

The communication unit can transmit and receive data related to the diagnosis of a subject, such as ultrasound images of the subject, echo ultrasound, Doppler data, and numerical values indicating the progress of labor, through a network, and can also transmit and receive medical images taken by other medical devices, such as CT, MRI, and X-ray.

Additionally, the communication unit can receive information about the patient's diagnosis history or treatment schedule from the server and use it to diagnose the subject.

To this end, the communication unit can be connected to a network, either wired or wirelessly, to exchange data with a server, medical device, or portable terminal. The communication unit may include one or more components that enable communication with external devices, such as a short-range communication module, a wired communication module, and a mobile communication module.

In the above, each component of the ultrasonic imaging device (10) has been described. Below, the method by which the ultrasonic imaging device (10) determines a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress will be described in detail.

FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a case where an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention determines a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress.

Referring to FIG. 3, a control unit (140) according to one embodiment can generate an ultrasonic image based on an ultrasonic echo signal received from an ultrasonic probe (200).

Specifically, the control unit (140) can generate an ultrasonic image through a scan conversion process for an ultrasonic echo signal.

At this time, the user can take an image of the abdomen of the subject (mother) or the body of the subject (mother) through the ultrasound probe (200) so as to determine a numerical value for the degree of labor progress, and the control unit (140) can generate an ultrasound image of the cervix and fetus of the subject (mother) based on the ultrasound echo signal received from the ultrasound probe (200). That is, the control unit (140) can generate an ultrasound image in which at least one of the cervix or the fetus appears based on the ultrasound echo signal from the ultrasound probe (200).

According to one embodiment, the control unit (140) can process ultrasound images of the cervix and the fetus to obtain information on the state of the cervix and information on the position of the fetus.

That is, the control unit (140) can identify the cervix and the fetus based on image processing of an ultrasound image based on an image processing algorithm, and can obtain information on the state of the cervix and the position of the fetus based on the identified cervix and the fetus.

Image processing algorithms may be used, for example, edge detection and morphological operations, and any image processing algorithm capable of identifying objects in ultrasound images may be used without limitation.

According to one embodiment, the control unit (140) can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the state information of the cervix and the position information of the fetus.

At this time, the numerical value indicating the progress of labor may correspond to the Bishop score, and may be used to predict the timing of labor or determine the method of labor by judging the progress of labor.

Specifically, the control unit (140) can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress by adding up numerical values corresponding to each of the information on the length of the cervix, the degree of dilation of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, the position of the cervix, and the position of the fetus.

At this time, the storage unit (160) can store information on the correlation between the status information of the cervix and the numerical value and information on the correlation between the position information of the fetus and the numerical value, and the control unit (140) can determine the numerical value corresponding to each of the length of the cervix, the degree of dilation of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, the position of the cervix, and the position information of the fetus based on the information on the correlation.

The position of the cervix can move forward toward the vagina of the subject as the fetus descends toward the pelvis. Therefore, the numerical value corresponding to the position of the cervix can be determined to be higher as it moves forward toward the vagina of the subject, as illustrated in Figure 3.

The hardness of the cervix may weaken as labor progresses. Therefore, the numerical value corresponding to the hardness of the cervix may be determined to be higher as the hardness of the cervix weakens, as illustrated in Figure 3.

The length of the cervix may shorten as labor progresses. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 3, a numerical value corresponding to the length of the cervix may be determined to be a higher value as the length of the cervix shortens. For example, if the length of the cervix is 4 cm or more, "0" may be assigned as a numerical value. If the length of the cervix is 3 cm to 4 cm, "1" may be assigned as a numerical value. If the length of the cervix is 1 cm to 2 cm, "2" may be assigned as a numerical value. If the length of the cervix is completely lost and becomes 0, "3" may be assigned as a numerical value.

The degree of cervical dilatation may increase as labor progresses. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 3, a numerical value corresponding to the degree of cervical dilatation may be determined to have a higher value as the degree of cervical dilatation increases. For example, if the cervix is closed, "0" may be assigned as a numerical value. If the degree of cervical dilatation is 1 to 2 cm, "1" may be assigned as a numerical value. If the degree of cervical dilatation is 3 to 4 cm, "2" may be assigned as a numerical value. If the degree of cervical dilatation is 5 cm or more, "3" may be assigned as a numerical value.

The position of the fetus may descend toward the pelvis as labor progresses. At this time, the position of the fetus can be defined based on the angle of progression (AOP) between the long axis of the pubic bone and the line from the lowermost edge of the pubic bone to the fetal skull, and as the AOP increases, it can be considered that labor has progressed. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 3, the numerical value corresponding to the position information of the fetus can be determined as a higher value as the AOP increases. For example, if the AOP is 85° or less, "0" can be assigned as the numerical value, if the AOP is 86° to 95°, "1" can be assigned as the numerical value, if the AOP is 96° to 125°, "2" can be assigned as the numerical value, and if the AOP is 126° or more, "3" can be assigned as the numerical value.

The control unit (140), according to an embodiment, may determine a minimum numerical value corresponding to the degree of dilatation of the cervix when processing an ultrasound image to obtain information on the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix, respectively.

That is, when the control unit (140) determines that the cervix is not effacement by obtaining information on the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix, the control unit (140) determines that the cervix is not dilated and can determine the numerical value corresponding to the degree of dilation of the cervix to be the minimum.

In addition, the control unit (140), according to an embodiment, when processing an ultrasound image to obtain information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix, can determine the maximum numerical value corresponding to each of the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix.

That is, when information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix is acquired and it is determined that the cervix is dilated, the control unit (140) determines that the cervix is effaced and can determine the maximum numerical values corresponding to the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix.

The above detailed the process of determining numerical values representing the progress of labor based on information about the cervix's condition and fetal position. Below, the process of obtaining information about the cervix's condition and fetal position will be described in detail.

FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a case where an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention determines the position of the cervix, and FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a numerical value for the position of the cervix.

Referring to FIG. 4, the position of the cervix (50) can move forward toward the vagina of the subject as the fetus (60) descends toward the pelvis (see (a) of FIG. 4).

At this time, the angle between the front wall (41) of the uterus (40) and the cervix (50) may decrease as the position of the cervix (50) moves forward. Additionally, the angle between the back wall (43) of the uterus (40) and the cervix (50) may increase as the position of the cervix (50) moves forward.

For example, the control unit (140) according to one embodiment may determine the angle between the front wall (41) of the uterus (40) and the cervix (50) as the position of the cervix (50) based on processing of the ultrasound image, as illustrated in FIG. 4, and determine a numerical value corresponding to the angle as a numerical value corresponding to the position of the cervix (50) (see (b) of FIG. 4).

That is, the control unit (140) can determine the position of the cervix based on the angle between the front wall (41) of the uterus (40) and the cervix (50) or the angle between the back wall (43) of the uterus (40) and the cervix (50) based on the ultrasound image, and determine a corresponding numerical value.

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, when the control unit (140) determines a numerical value corresponding to the position of the cervix based on the angle (Anterior cervical angle) between the anterior wall (41) of the uterus (40) and the cervix (50), the control unit (140) may determine a numerical value that becomes higher as the angle decreases, with 100° and 140° as the boundary. That is, the control unit (140) may determine "0" as the numerical value when the angle is less than 100°, "1" when the angle is between 101° and 140°, and "2" when the angle is 141° or more.

In addition, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, when the control unit (140) determines a numerical value corresponding to the position of the cervix based on the angle (posterior cervical angle) between the posterior wall (43) of the uterus (40) and the cervix (50), the control unit (140) may determine a numerical value that becomes higher as the angle increases, with 100° and 140° as the boundary. That is, the control unit (140) may determine "2" as the numerical value when the angle is less than 100°, "1" when the angle is between 101° and 140°, and "0" when the angle is 141° or more.

At this time, the cervix (50) may be lost as labor progresses, and if the cervix (50) is lost and it is impossible to determine the angle with the front wall (41) or the back wall (43) of the uterus (40), the control unit (140) may determine the numerical value corresponding to the position of the cervix (50) as the maximum value (e.g., “2”).

FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a case where an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention determines the hardness of a cervix (50).

Referring to FIG. 6, a control unit (140) according to one embodiment can measure the hardness at a photographed portion based on an echo signal from an ultrasonic probe (200). That is, the control unit (140) can measure the hardness at a photographed portion by utilizing a material characteristic in which a reflected echo signal varies depending on the hardness of the material, and can display the hardness in an ultrasound image by varying the color or contrast depending on the hardness.

The hardness of the cervix (50) may weaken as labor progresses. Therefore, the control unit (140) may determine a numerical value to be a higher value as the hardness of the cervix (50) weakens. That is, the control unit (140) may determine a numerical value of "0" when the hardness is greater than or equal to the first set value (Hard), "1" when the hardness is between the first set value and the second set value (Normal), and "2" when the hardness is less than or equal to the second set value (Soft), based on the first set value and the second set value as boundaries.

At this time, the cervix (50) may be lost as labor progresses, and if the cervix (50) is lost and it is impossible to determine the hardness of the cervix (50), the control unit (140) may determine the numerical value corresponding to the hardness of the cervix (50) as the maximum value (e.g., “2”).

FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the length of the cervix (50) and the degree of dilatation of the cervix (50), FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a case where an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention determines the length of the cervix (50), and FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a case where an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention determines the degree of dilatation of the cervix (50).

Referring to FIG. 7, the length (51) of the cervix (50) may shorten as labor progresses due to effacement of the cervix (50). In addition, the degree of dilatation (53) of the cervix (50) may increase as labor progresses due to effacement of the cervix (50).

At this time, Fig. 7 shows the length (51) of the cervix (50) and the degree of expansion (53) of the cervix (50) as labor progresses, and shows that labor progresses in the order of (a), (b), (c), and (d).

In this way, the length (51) of the cervix (50) may become shorter as it goes from (a) to (d) of Fig. 7, and may have a value of “0” in (d) of Fig. 7 due to loss of the cervix (50).

In addition, the degree of expansion (53) of the cervix (50) may increase from (a) to (d) of Fig. 7, for example, if the cervix (50) is expanded to 3 cm in (c) of Fig. 7, the cervix (50) may be expanded to 10 cm in (d) of Fig. 7.

According to one embodiment, the control unit (140) can determine the length (51) of the cervix (50) by processing an ultrasound image, as illustrated in FIG. 8, and can determine a numerical value corresponding to the length (51) of the cervix (50) by comparing the length (51) of the cervix (50) with boundary reference values (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4 cm).

According to one embodiment, the control unit (140) can determine the degree of dilatation (53) of the cervix (50) by processing an ultrasound image, as illustrated in FIG. 9. At this time, the degree of dilatation (53) of the cervix (50) can correspond to the degree to which the cervix (50) is dilated, and can be expressed as a diameter in the dilated area. The control unit (140) can determine a numerical value corresponding to the degree of dilatation (53) of the cervix (50) by comparing the diameter in the dilated area with boundary reference values (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 cm).

FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a case where an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention determines position information of a fetus.

Referring to Fig. 10, the position of the fetus (60) may descend toward the pelvis as labor progresses. At this time, the position of the fetus (60) may be defined based on the angle of progression (AOP) between the long axis of the pubic bone (70) and the line connecting the lowermost edge of the pubic bone (70) to the fetal skull (65), and as the AOP increases, it can be considered that labor has progressed. (See Fig. 10 (a))

A control unit (140) according to one embodiment can process an ultrasound image to produce an AOP, and compare the AOP with boundary reference values (e.g., 85°, 95°, 125°) to determine a numerical value corresponding to the position information of the fetus (60).

FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a case where an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention displays a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress.

Referring to FIG. 11, a control unit (140) according to one embodiment can control a display (150) to display a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress.

Through this, the display (150) can display information (1130) about numerical values. Specifically, the display (150) can display a numerical value (Total) indicating the progress of labor.

At this time, the information (1130) on the numerical value may, depending on the embodiment, include information on the details of the numerical value (Total) indicating the degree of labor progress. That is, the control unit (140) may control the display (150) to display numerical values corresponding to each of the status information of the cervix (50) and the position information of the fetus (60).

For example, the display (150) may display, as information on details of a numerical value (Total) indicating the progress of labor, a numerical value (Angle: 1) corresponding to the position of the cervix (50), a numerical value (Elasticity: 1) corresponding to the hardness of the cervix (50), a numerical value (Length: 1) corresponding to the length of the cervix (50), a numerical value (Dilation: 0) corresponding to the degree of dilation of the cervix (50), and a numerical value (AOP: 1) corresponding to the position information of the fetus (60).

Additionally, the control unit (140) according to one embodiment can control the display (150) to display at least one of the status information of the cervix (50) or the position information of the fetus (60).

Through this, the display (150) can display at least one of the status information (1110) of the cervix (50) or the position information (1120) of the fetus (60).

For example, the display (150) can display the position (Angle) of the cervix (50), the hardness (Elasticity) of the cervix (50), the length (Length) of the cervix (50), and the degree of dilation (Dilation) of the cervix (50) as the status information (1110) of the cervix (50).

Additionally, the display (150) can display AOP as the position information (1120) of the fetus (60), and, depending on the embodiment, can further display the head direction.

According to one embodiment, the control unit (140) can control the display (150) to display an ultrasound image (1140).

Accordingly, the display (150) may, according to an embodiment, display an ultrasound image (1140). At this time, the ultrasound image (1140) may include an ultrasound image processed to obtain at least one of state information of the cervix (50) or position information of the fetus (60), and may include a plurality of ultrasound images including at least one of the cervix (50) or the fetus (60).

At this time, the control unit (140), according to an embodiment, when a user input for adjusting at least one of the state information of the cervix (50) or the position information of the fetus (60) is received through the input unit (130), the control unit (140) can adjust at least one of the state information of the cervix (50) or the position information of the fetus (60) based on the user input.

That is, when the status information of the cervix (50) and the location information of the fetus (60) are displayed through the display (150), the user can adjust at least one of the status information of the cervix (50) or the location information of the fetus (60) according to the diagnosis made by the user through the input unit (130). At this time, the user's diagnosis may be, depending on the embodiment, through an internal examination or through the user's analysis of an ultrasound image (1140) displayed on the display (150).

In this case, the control unit (140) can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the status information of the cervix (50) and the position information of the fetus (60) adjusted by user input.

Hereinafter, a method for controlling an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to an embodiment will be described. The ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to the above-described embodiment can be applied to the method for controlling an ultrasonic imaging device (10) described below. Therefore, the contents described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11 can be equally applied to the method for controlling an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to an embodiment, even if no special mention is made.

Fig. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a case in which a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress is displayed among the control methods of an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 12, an ultrasound imaging device (10) according to one embodiment can generate an ultrasound image of a cervix (50) and a fetus (60) based on an echo signal (1210).

At this time, the user can take an image of the abdomen of the subject (mother) or the body of the subject (mother) through the ultrasound probe (200) so as to determine a numerical value for the degree of labor progress, and the control unit (140) can generate an ultrasound image of the cervix and fetus of the subject (mother) based on the ultrasound echo signal received from the ultrasound probe (200). That is, the control unit (140) can generate an ultrasound image in which at least one of the cervix or the fetus appears based on the ultrasound echo signal from the ultrasound probe (200).

An ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment can process an ultrasonic image to obtain information on the state of the cervix (50) and the position of the fetus (60) (1220).

That is, the control unit (140) can identify the cervix (50) and the fetus (60) based on image processing of an ultrasound image based on an image processing algorithm, and can obtain status information of the cervix (50) and position information of the fetus (60) based on the identified cervix (50) and fetus (60).

Image processing algorithms may be used, for example, edge detection and morphological operations, and any image processing algorithm capable of identifying objects in ultrasound images may be used without limitation.

The status information of the cervix (50) includes the length of the cervix (50), the degree of dilation of the cervix (50), the stiffness of the cervix (50), and the position of the cervix (50).

An ultrasound imaging device (10) according to one embodiment can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on information on the state of the cervix (50) and information on the position of the fetus (60) (1230).

At this time, the numerical value indicating the progress of labor may correspond to the Bishop score, and may be used to predict the timing of labor or determine the method of labor by judging the progress of labor.

Specifically, the control unit (140) can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress by adding up numerical values corresponding to each of the length of the cervix (50), the degree of dilation of the cervix (50), the hardness of the cervix (50), the position of the cervix (50), and the position of the fetus (60).

The control unit (140), according to an embodiment, may determine a minimum numerical value corresponding to the degree of dilatation of the cervix (50) when processing an ultrasound image to obtain information on the length of the cervix (50), the hardness of the cervix (50), and the position of the cervix (50).

That is, when the control unit (140) determines that the cervix (50) is not effacement by obtaining information on the length of the cervix (50), the hardness of the cervix (50), and the position of the cervix (50), the control unit (140) determines that the cervix (50) is not dilated and can determine the numerical value corresponding to the degree of dilation of the cervix (50) to be the minimum.

In addition, the control unit (140), according to an embodiment, when processing an ultrasound image to obtain information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix (50), can determine the maximum numerical value corresponding to each of the length of the cervix (50), the hardness of the cervix (50), and the position of the cervix (50).

That is, when information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix (50) is acquired and it is determined that the cervix (50) is dilated, the control unit (140) determines that the cervix (50) has disappeared and can determine the maximum numerical values corresponding to the length of the cervix (50), the hardness of the cervix (50), and the position of the cervix (50).

An ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment can control a display (150) to display a numerical value (1240).

In this way, the ultrasonic imaging device (10) can provide a highly reliable Bishop score to the user by determining the Bishop score through ultrasonic waves and displaying it.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a case in which a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress is determined based on user input among the control methods of an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 13, an ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment can generate an ultrasonic image of a cervix (50) and a fetus (60) based on an echo signal (1310), and can process the ultrasonic image to obtain information on the state of the cervix (50) and the position of the fetus (60) (1320).

At this time, the ultrasound imaging device (10) according to one embodiment can display information on the state of the cervix (50) and information on the position of the fetus (60) (1330).

According to one embodiment, an ultrasound imaging device (10) may, when a user input for adjustment of at least one of the state information of the cervix (50) or the position information of the fetus (60) is received through an input unit (130) (example of 1340), adjust at least one of the state information of the cervix (50) or the position information of the fetus (60) based on the user input (1350).

That is, when the status information of the cervix (50) and the location information of the fetus (60) are displayed through the display (150), the user can adjust at least one of the status information of the cervix (50) or the location information of the fetus (60) according to the diagnosis made by the user through the input unit (130). At this time, the user's diagnosis may be, depending on the embodiment, through an internal examination or through the user's analysis of an ultrasound image (1140) displayed on the display (150).

An ultrasound imaging device (10) according to one embodiment can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on information on the state of the cervix (50) and information on the position of the fetus (60) (1360).

That is, the control unit (140) can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the status information of the cervix (50) and the position information of the fetus (60) adjusted by the user input when a user input is received, and can determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the acquired status information of the cervix (50) and the position information of the fetus (60) when no user input is received.

An ultrasonic imaging device (10) according to one embodiment can control a display (150) to display a numerical value (1370).

In this way, the ultrasound imaging device (10) can provide a highly reliable Bishop score to the user by determining the Bishop score through ultrasound and displaying it, and can provide an opportunity to obtain a more reliable Bishop score by providing an interface for adjusting the acquired status information of the cervix (50) and the position information of the fetus (60).

Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disks, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

10: Ultrasonic imaging device 100: Main body
110: Transmission signal generation unit 120: Beamforming unit
130: Input section 140: Control section
150: Display 160: Storage
200: Ultrasonic probe 210: Transducer module

Claims (20)

display;
A probe that transmits an ultrasonic signal to a target and detects an echo signal; and
A control unit for generating an ultrasound image of the cervix and the fetus of the subject based on the echo signal, processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the state of the cervix and information on the position of the fetus, determining a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the information on the state of the cervix and the information on the position of the fetus, and controlling the display to display the numerical value;
The above cervical condition information is:
An ultrasound imaging device comprising the length of the cervix, the degree of dilation of the cervix, the stiffness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix. delete In the first paragraph,
The above control unit,
An ultrasound imaging device that determines a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress by adding up numerical values corresponding to each of the length of the cervix, the degree of dilation of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, the position of the cervix, and the position of the fetus. In the third paragraph,
The above control unit,
An ultrasound imaging device that processes the ultrasound image to obtain information on the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix, and determines a numerical value corresponding to the degree of dilatation of the cervix as the minimum. In the third paragraph,
The above control unit,
An ultrasound imaging device that obtains information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix by processing the ultrasound image, and determines the maximum numerical value corresponding to each of the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix. In the first paragraph,
The above probe,
A first probe inserted into the body of the subject to detect an echo signal; and
An ultrasound imaging device comprising a second probe that contacts the body surface of the target object and detects an echo signal. In paragraph 6,
The above control unit,
An ultrasound imaging device that processes an ultrasound image generated based on an echo signal of the first probe to obtain the position of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the length of the cervix. In paragraph 6,
The above control unit,
An ultrasound imaging device that processes an ultrasound image generated based on an echo signal of the second probe to obtain information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix and the position of the fetus. In the first paragraph,
The above control unit,
An ultrasound imaging device that controls the display to display at least one of the status information of the cervix or the position information of the fetus. In the first paragraph,
The above ultrasonic imaging device,
further comprising an input unit for receiving user input;
The above control unit,
An ultrasound imaging device that adjusts at least one of the state information of the cervix or the position information of the fetus based on a user input received through the input unit. A method for controlling an ultrasonic imaging device including a probe that transmits an ultrasonic signal to a display and a target and detects an echo signal,
Generating an ultrasound image of the cervix and fetus of the subject based on the echo signal;
Processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the condition of the cervix and information on the position of the fetus;
Determine a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress based on the state information of the cervix and the position information of the fetus;
Controlling the display to display the numerical value;
The above cervical condition information is:
A method for controlling an ultrasound imaging device including the length of the cervix, the degree of dilatation of the cervix, the stiffness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix. delete In Article 11,
Determining a numerical value indicating the progress of labor based on the above cervical condition information and the fetal position information,
A method for controlling an ultrasound imaging device, comprising: determining a numerical value indicating the degree of labor progress by adding numerical values corresponding to each of the length of the cervix, the degree of dilation of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, the position of the cervix, and the position of the fetus. In Article 13,
Determining a numerical value indicating the progress of labor based on the above cervical condition information and the fetal position information,
A method for controlling an ultrasound imaging device, comprising: determining a numerical value corresponding to the degree of dilatation of the cervix as the minimum when obtaining information on the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix by processing the ultrasound image; In Article 13,
Determining a numerical value indicating the progress of labor based on the above cervical condition information and the fetal position information,
A control method of an ultrasound imaging device, comprising: when processing the ultrasound image to obtain information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix, determining a maximum numerical value corresponding to each of the length of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the position of the cervix. In Article 11,
The above probe,
A first probe inserted into the body of the subject to detect an echo signal; and
A control method for an ultrasound imaging device, comprising: a second probe that contacts the body surface of the object and detects an echo signal. In Article 16,
Processing the above ultrasound image to obtain information on the condition of the cervix and the position of the fetus,
A control method of an ultrasound imaging device, comprising: processing an ultrasound image generated based on an echo signal of the first probe to obtain the position of the cervix, the hardness of the cervix, and the length of the cervix. In Article 16,
Processing the above ultrasound image to obtain information on the condition of the cervix and the position of the fetus,
A control method of an ultrasound imaging device, comprising: processing an ultrasound image generated based on an echo signal of the second probe to obtain information on the degree of dilatation of the cervix and the position of the fetus. In Article 11,
A method for controlling an ultrasound imaging device, further comprising: controlling the display to display at least one of the status information of the cervix or the position information of the fetus. In Article 11,
The above ultrasonic imaging device,
further comprising an input unit for receiving user input;
A method for controlling an ultrasound imaging device, further comprising: adjusting at least one of the state information of the cervix or the position information of the fetus based on a user input received through the input unit.